Planning to do a home upgrade? One of the must-haves on the list is a bathtub. It can provide you with a well-deserved relaxing experience after a tiring day at work. But with all the bathtub options on the market, it can be confusing to choose which one is the best for your home.
When it comes to choosing a bathtub, many factors come into play. From size and style to material and price, there are many things to consider when making this purchase. And with the price and installation methods, and the time it consumes to build one, it is important to discern carefully. How do you know you are making the right choice?
10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathtub
Here are ten factors that should be taken into account when selecting the perfect bathtub for your home.
1. Size
The first thing to consider when choosing a bathtub is size. You may have picked the most beautiful tub there is but does it match comfortably in the space you have available? If you have a small bathroom, you may want to consider a corner tub or a smaller freestanding tub. If you have a larger bathroom, you may want to consider a larger tub or even a whirlpool tub.
Another question is on how heavy the tub is and where is your bathroom located. Heavy tubs are not advisable for high areas in the house as the floor may not be able to take on the weight or may take a lot of effort to install. That being said, it is important to measure the area where the tub will go, and how heavy it is and take these measurements with you when shopping.
2. Style
There are many different styles of bathtubs on the market today. It comes in different colors, materials, sizes, and designs. From traditional clawfoot tubs to more modern designs, there is sure to be a style that will suit the feels of your home.
Some tubs have the drain located in the middle while others have it located at one end. It is important to think about how you will be using your tub and where would be the most convenient location for the drain.
Overall, the style of your bathtub will highly depend on your taste and needs. Make a list of what look you are trying to achieve in your bathroom before making your final selection.
3. Material
Bathtubs are usually made from one of three materials: acrylic, enameled steel, or cast iron. Acrylic is the most popular choice as it is lightweight and easy to clean. Enameled steel is a bit more durable and cast iron is the heaviest and most durable option.
Once you have decided on the material, it is important to think about how easy it would be to clean. Some materials are more porous than others and may require more cleaning and maintenance. Consider your lifestyle and how much time you are willing to spend cleaning your tub. It won’t hurt to take the time to research the pros and cons of these materials and consider what material will best suit your needs before making your final selection.
4. Price
Bathtubs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It is important to set a budget for yourself before beginning your search. This will help you narrow down your options and make the process of choosing a bathtub much easier. While branded items may have higher price tags, they may save you a lot of money rather than buying or spending on repairs annually.
Another tip is to be on the lookout for seasonal sales. Who knows, that high-priced tub you have in mind might be achievable in the following months!
It is important to note that the cost does not stop at buying the bathtub itself. You may also want to consider the cost of installation when setting your budget. If you are planning on doing the installation yourself, be sure to factor in the cost of materials and tools that you will need.
5. Installation
Another factor to consider when choosing a bathtub is installation. Some tubs are designed to be installed by the homeowner, while others require professional installation. Some might even require you to do an overhaul just to install. You can always try to DIY but be sure to factor in the cost of materials and tools that you will need. It might be a better idea to hire a professional if you are not confident in your ability to install the tub properly.
Consider your skill level and the time you have available before making your final selection to avoid regrets. You wouldn’t want a non-functional tub laying around your house, would you?
6. Use
Consider how you plan to use your bathtub before making your final selection. Bathtubs have specific features that you can take advantage of. If you have young children- a tub with a slip-resistant bottom may be a good choice. If you are looking for a tub to relax in, one with jets and underwater lighting may be a better option. If you are the type who loves to listen to music while taking a nice bath, then a built-in speaker would most likely excite you.
A remote would not be efficient to navigate all these features, so a tub equipped with buttons for controls would be beneficial to you.
7. Maintenance
Bathtubs require some regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Have a quick check on the activities you do in the bathroom and analyze whether the chemicals you use every day affect the material composition of your tub. Bathtubs require some level of maintenance, regardless of the material it is made from. Porcelain bathtubs, for example, require regular cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners to prevent staining. Acrylic bathtubs, on the other hand, only require occasional cleaning with mild soap and water.
Some tubs may require specific ways to clean so make sure that the cleaning materials used for the tub are available in your area. Consider how easy the tub you select will be to clean and maintain before making your final decision. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend all your time cleaning when you could be relaxing in your bathtub!
8. Warranty
Most bathtub manufacturers offer some type of warranty on their products. If you are considering a high-end tub, make sure to ask about the warranty before making your purchase. This will give you peace of mind in knowing that your investment is protected.
Let’s say if you are not happy with the bathtub you have purchased, it is important to know the return and exchange policy of the store you bought it from. Most stores have a limited time for returns or exchanges, so be sure to ask about this before making your purchase.
Some stores may require a restocking fee, so be sure to ask about this as well. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you are clear about the store’s policy before finalizing your purchase.
Great after sales support is just right for big purchases such as this.
9. Reviews
When it comes to something as important as a bathtub, it’s crucial to get as much information as possible before making your final decision. This is where customer reviews come in handy. Be sure to read online reviews of the bathtubs you are considering. This will give you an idea of what others who have purchased and used the tubs think about them. You can also get valuable insights about a particular model that you may not have considered. While not everyone is going to have the same opinion still, reviews can be a helpful tool in making your decision.
Not only do online reviews matter but recommendations from your family and friends as well. This information is more dependable since the source is more credible.
10. Consult a Professional
If you are still unsure about which bathtub to select, consult a professional for advice. A plumber or other home improvement expert can help you narrow down your choices and make the best decision for your needs. They can also offer helpful tips on installation and maintenance.
While it may cost you a bit for their services, it is worth it to get expert advice before making such an important purchase.
Final Verdict
With so many factors to consider, choosing the perfect bathtub for your home can be a daunting task. It can be a huge decision to make since your money and time are at stake. However, by taking the time to do your research and understand your needs, you can find the perfect tub for your space. Use this list of ten factors to guide you through the selection process and you are sure to find the perfect bathtub for you.
Now that you know the 10 factors to consider when choosing a bathtub, it’s time to start shopping!
